Key Takeaways
Driving UTVs in the rain can be safe and fun if you slow down, drive smoothly, and treat wet conditions as a “dial it back” day.
Thunderstorms, lightning, flooding, and poor visibility are clear reasons to pause or reschedule a ride.
Wet trails reduce traction and increase stopping distance, so riders should brake earlier, leave more space, and avoid sudden throttle, steering, and braking moves.
Smart rain technique includes watching for low-traction zones, checking puddle depth before crossing, and using steady momentum instead of creeping through mud.
The right UTV rain gear and UTV waterproof gear improve comfort and control, especially with waterproof layers, traction-ready boots, and anti-fog eye protection.
Rain can turn a regular UTV trail ride into a mud-slinging adventure, and plenty of riders love the extra splash and challenge. However, wet conditions also reduce traction and visibility, meaning you should know how to prepare for the rain and drive in it before you head out into the wilderness with a UTV.
To make sure you have a safe and fun experience, review our guide to riding a UTV in the rain.
Is It Safe to Ride a UTV in the Rain?
Rain riding can be safe with slower speeds, smooth inputs, and taking safer paths through puddles, ruts, and mud. However, thunderstorms, lightning, flooding, and poor visibility are clear reasons to stop.
Wet terrain makes braking distances longer and cornering less predictable, and rain can blur your view of ruts, rocks, and trail edges. Mud can be part of the perk, but the safest approach is to treat rain as a “dial it back” day and save the biggest sends for dry conditions.
10 UTV Rain Riding Tips
As long as there’s no thunderstorms or lightning on the horizon, a rainy day can make for an incredibly fun UTV tour. You might get a little dirty, but there’s nothing like kicking up tons of mud and roaring through puddles as you explore the wilderness.
If you want to get the most out of your tour, check out our top tips for UTV riding in wet conditions:
1. Pick Your Weather Window
Check the forecast for the specific riding area and avoid riding when storms are approaching. Lightning risk can rise before heavy rain even starts, so plan around thunderstorm timing instead of hoping it stays away.
2. Do a Quick Pre-Ride Inspection
Confirm tires look healthy, brakes feel firm, and lights work before heading out. Rain reduces your margin for error, so basic equipment issues tend to show up faster on wet trails.
3. Slow Down and Add Braking Space
Since rain can affect your tires’ grip strength and can make it harder to brake, you’ll want to slow down and give yourself more space between other UTVs. Sticking to a slower speed gives your tires more time to find grip, and giving other vehicles some extra following distance buys you room for longer stopping distances.
4. Keep Steering, Throttle, and Braking Smooth
Wet trails reward smooth control. If you stab the gas, crank the wheel, or slam the brakes, the tires can let go in a hurry. Use gradual steering, a steady throttle, and earlier braking to keep the UTV stable as you drive.
5. Brake Smart on Slippery Terrain
Hard braking can break traction on wet dirt or slick mud. Use controlled braking and avoid over-braking on loose or slippery terrain to maintain predictable directional control.
6. Watch for Low-Traction Zones
Rain can turn certain spots into surprise slip zones, including muddy puddles, shiny surfaces, and obstacle-heavy stretches that feel harder than usual. Stick to established paths, scan farther ahead, and give yourself space to react.
7. Test the Puddle Before You Commit
Puddles can hide holes, ruts, and uneven bottoms. If you can’t judge depth and firmness, get off and check before driving in. To check, a stick can work as a simple measuring tool.
8. Don’t Creep Through Mud
Crawling through a mud hole often leads to sinking and getting stuck. Aim for controlled momentum with a steady throttle so the tires can keep moving without spinning wildly.
9. Balance Weight and Secure Your Load
An unevenly loaded UTV can make a wet ride feel twitchy. Keep gear low, strapped down, and evenly distributed so each tire can do its share of the work.
10. Protect Visibility and Keep Essentials Dry
Rain and spray can limit what you see, and fogged lenses can turn a simple trail into a guessing game. Use anti-fog eye protection, keep a microfiber cloth accessible, and seal valuables in a dry pouch.
What Should I Wear to Ride a UTV in the Rain?
The right UTV rain gear keeps you comfortable and helps you stay in control. Prioritize UTV waterproof gear that protects grip and visibility, not just dryness. Some commonly recommended clothes to wear while taking a UTV tour in the rain include:
- Waterproof jacket or riding shell
- Waterproof pants or a rain suit
- Waterproof gloves with a secure grip
- Waterproof boots with traction
- Goggles or a face shield, anti-fog helps
- Moisture-wicking base layer
- Dry pouch for phone, keys, and wallet
- Spare socks or gloves in a waterproof bag
FAQs About Riding UTVs in the Rain
Can You Ride a UTV in the Rain?
Yes. Rain riding is common, but wet conditions reduce traction and visibility, so slower speeds and smoother control are more important than usual.
Are UTV Tours Cancelled for Rain?
Many guided operators run tours rain or shine, but they often pause, delay, or cancel for unsafe conditions like lightning, high winds, or heavy rain. Policies vary by operator and location.
Is It More Dangerous to Ride a UTV in the Rain?
It can be. Wet terrain affects traction, braking, and cornering, and hidden ruts or holes are harder to spot, especially in puddles and muddy sections.
Is It Dangerous to Ride in a UTV in Thunderstorms and Lightning?
Yes. You’re not safe outside when thunderstorms are in the area, so it’s always recommended to seek shelter and wait at least 30 minutes after the last thunderclap before going back out.
Will I Get Soaked on a Guided UTV Tour If It’s Raining?
Expect some spray and mud in rainy conditions, even with good gear. Waterproof layers, gloves, boots, and anti-fog eye protection can keep the ride comfortable and protect your hands and vision.
Ride a UTV Through the Mud at WildSide
If you’re interested in riding in or driving a UTV in the rain in Pigeon Forge, WildSide is ready to welcome you to our adventure park. When you sign up for a UTV tour, you’ll have the chance to get behind the wheel of a 2, 4, or 6-seater UTV and explore our private off-road trails. With 90 minutes behind the wheel and expert guides, you’ll have an unforgettable experience exploring the Smoky Mountains, with plenty of opportunities for pictures!
Learn more about our UTV tours and rentals today. If you’d like to check out the UTVs we have for rent, please browse our fleet!